xxvi, 1119 pages ; 25 cm

Humanist, skeptic, acute observer of himself and others, Michel de Montaigne (1533--92) was the first to use the term "essay" to refer to the form he pioneered, and he has remained one of its most famous practitioners. He reflected on the great themes of existence in his wise and engaging writings, his subjects ranging from proper conversation and good reading, to the raising of children and the endurance of pain, from solitude, destiny, time, and custom, to truth, consciousness, and death. Having stood the test of time, his essays continue to influence writers nearly five hundred years later. Also included in this complete edition of his works are Montaigne's letters and his travel journal, fascinating records of the experiences and contemplations that would shape and infuse his essays. Montaigne speaks to us always in a personal voice in which his virtues of tolerance, moderation, and understanding are dazzlingly manifest. (from Google)

Includes bibliographical references (pages xvi-xviii) and index

Introduction -- Note on the Translation -- Selected Bibliography -- Essays with Approximate Dates of Composition -- To the Reader (1580) -- Book I -- Book II -- Book III -- Travel Journal -- Note on the Travel Journal -- Analytical Table of the Trip -- Table of the Money Values -- Letters -- Note on the Letters -- Index of Proper Names in the Essays

plus-circle Add Review

comment

Reviews